Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: With no chilling required, you can prepare these cookies in under 30 minutes.
- Simple Ingredients: Made with pantry staples, there’s no need for special trips to the store.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Their fudgy texture and powdered sugar coating make them a favorite among both kids and adults.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup light olive oil (or avocado oil)
- 4 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour (or a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend)
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar (for coating)
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the cocoa powder, granulated sugar, and oil until smooth. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until a stiff dough forms.
- Form Dough Balls: Using a cookie scoop or your hands, shape the dough into 1-inch balls.
- Coat with Sugar: Roll each dough ball first in granulated sugar, then generously in powdered sugar to ensure a thick coating.
- Bake: Place the coated dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cookies have spread and the tops are cracked.
- Cool: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Servings and Timing
- Yield: Approximately 24 cookies
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10-12 minutes per batch
- Total Time: 25-30 minutes
Variations
- Add-ins: Incorporate mini chocolate chips or chopped nuts into the dough for extra texture and flavor.
- Flavor Twist: Add a teaspoon of peppermint extract for a festive minty version.
- Spiced: Mix in a pinch of cinnamon or espresso powder to enhance the chocolate depth.
Storage/Reheating
- Room Temperature: Store baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
- Freezing Dough: Freeze unbaked cookie dough balls (without sugar coating) for up to three months. When ready to bake, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then roll in sugars and bake as directed.
- Freezing Baked Cookies: Freeze baked cookies in a single layer between sheets of parchment paper for up to three months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
FAQs
What causes the crinkle effect on these cookies?
The crinkle effect occurs when the cookies expand during baking, causing the powdered sugar coating to crack and reveal the fudgy interior.
Can I use a different type of oil?
Yes, you can substitute light olive oil with avocado oil or vegetable oil. Each will impart a slightly different flavor.
Do I need to chill the dough?
This recipe doesn’t require chilling, making it quick and convenient.
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour.
How do I prevent the powdered sugar from melting into the cookie?
Rolling the dough balls first in granulated sugar helps the powdered sugar stay on the surface, maintaining the crinkle appearance.
Why are my cookies flat?
Flat cookies can result from overmixing the dough or using expired baking powder. Ensure your baking powder is fresh and mix the dough just until combined.
Can I add other flavors?
Yes, adding extracts like peppermint or almond can provide a delightful twist.
How do I know when the cookies are done?
The cookies are done when they’ve spread, developed cracks on top, and the edges are set. They may appear slightly underdone in the center but will firm up as they cool.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, you can double the ingredients to make a larger batch. Ensure even mixing for consistent results.
What’s the best way to freeze the dough?
After forming the dough into balls, place them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Thaw in the refrigerator before coating with sugars and baking.
Conclusion
Chocolate Crinkle Cookies are a delightful treat that combines the richness of chocolate with a unique crinkled appearance. Their ease of preparation and crowd-pleasing taste make them a perfect addition to any occasion. Whether you’re baking for the holidays or simply satisfying a chocolate craving, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household.
Chocolate Crinkle Cookies
- Total Time: 25-30 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in these classic Chocolate Crinkle Cookies, featuring a crisp exterior and soft, fudgy center. Perfect for holidays or anytime chocolate cravings hit.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup light olive oil (or avocado oil)
- 4 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour (or 1:1 gluten-free flour blend)
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar (for coating)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, whisk cocoa powder, granulated sugar, and oil until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each. Stir in vanilla extract.
- In a separate bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually mix dry ingredients into the wet mixture until a stiff dough forms.
- Roll dough into 1-inch balls. Coat each ball in granulated sugar, then generously in powdered sugar.
- Place dough balls 2 inches apart on the baking sheet. Bake for 10-12 minutes, until the cookies spread and tops crack.
- Cool cookies on the sheet for a few minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
- For extra flavor, add mini chocolate chips, nuts, or a teaspoon of peppermint extract.
- To prevent powdered sugar from melting into the dough, roll first in granulated sugar before the powdered sugar.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
